Plates in the Head

Lately I've been thinking about fashion plates, though perhaps "thinking" is the wrong word; obsessing may be a better descriptor. One particular consignment store here in Austin tends to carry framed mid-century plates regularly. Unfortunately, the consigner knows the value and they are often too expensive for me. Therefore I have to improvise.
Yesterday I found a cache of images in the public domain on Wikipedia and hope to incorporate some in a few projects milling around in my head. Meanwhile, for those who, like me, are cash strapped but taste-expansive, why not click on some of these images & links -- enjoy the view!

Fashion Plates

University of Washington Digital Library Collection: Fashion Plates

Koshka the Cat: Fashion Plates

Wikipedia: History of Western Fashion

Godey's Ladies' Book

Happy Valentine's Day

The Bonnet Brigade wishes you a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Bonnet Brigade Blog Brought Back!

As half of the Bonnet Brigade duo, I simply couldn't let this blog sit. My partner in crime Laurie had to return to her native state of Maine to care for an elderly relative. She's still sewing and I hope that we can get the gang back together soon. For those that are interested in purchasing one of Laurie's exquisite creations, you can find her dresses for sale on ebay under the monniker Civilwarmainelady.

Here I'm wearing three examples of Laurie's handiwork:

Soon I'll highlight some of the activities we've been participating in.

Bonnet Brigade Beginnings

Greetings! While the Bonnet Brigade is still a work in progress, my pal Laurie and I have already had some success with our presentations. This past Februrary we spoke at a fundraiser in Brazoria, Texas for the Varner-Hogg Plantation Guardians who are working to improve the Texas State Park that was once the home of Texas Gov. Hogg and his philanthropic daughter Miss Ima Hogg (yes, she really did exist, but she didn't have a sister named Yura).

Here is a link to the event's press release.

This picture is of Laurie talking about the c. 1867 brown silk wedding dress she is holding.

This picture shows part of my bonnet collection and the small display featuring information on the Texas General Land Office's Save Texas History program.

All in all the program was a success. We've had other invitations to speak and we'll be posting updates as they happen. Come back and visit!